Hugo Leal out of World Cup

PARIS SAINT GERMAIN star Hugo Leal has been rocked by the news that he faces four to six months out after damaging his knee ligaments - ending his chances of playing in the World Cup with Portugal.

Leal has been in impressive form for PSG since joining the club in the summer from Atletico Madrid.

The midfielder had been hopeful of a place in Portugal's squad for the World Cup this summer in Korea & Japan.

However, 21-year-old Leal will not be adding to his solitary cap in the foreseeable future and has admitted to be focusing on the European Championships in 2004, which will be hosted in his home nation.

"This is the first major injury of my career," Leal told the club's official site. "But I am young and I will get through this.

"I will have the operation and then spend the next four months preparing to make my comeback.

"In six months` time, all this will be behind me and I will be back to my best.

"It is true that there is no chance of me going to the World Cup now," adds the youngster.

"But I will be better prepared for the European Championships in 2004 which take place in Portugal.

"It is vital that I stay optimistic. After all there are far worse situations in life than this."